Recognizing Trailblazers of Colorado Mountain Club

Pioneering Heights: Mary Cronin's Legacy

When we look back at the trailblazers who defined mountaineering in Colorado, Mary Cronin stands as a towering figure. In the 1930s, during an era when women were often discouraged from outdoor pursuits, Cronin became the first woman to summit all of Colorado's fourteeners—a feat remarkable even by today's standards.

As an early member of Colorado Mountain Club, Cronin didn't just climb mountains; she shattered expectations. Without modern gear, weather forecasting, or established routes, she navigated challenging terrain in wool knickers and hobnailed boots. Her accomplishment opened doors for generations of women mountaineers who would follow in her footsteps.

Cronin's legacy reminds us that the mountains don't discriminate—they challenge all who approach them equally, regardless of gender. Her determination and spirit continue to inspire our members today, embodying the ethos that with preparation, persistence, and passion, any summit is within reach.

Today's Leaders: Women Shaping the CMC

Their impact can be felt across the club—they're on the mountains, breaking trail, setting anchors, teaching skills, and leading by example in alpinism. They're the trip leaders introducing newcomers to their first fourteener, the technical experts refining our safety protocols, and the community builders ensuring everyone feels welcome in the outdoors.

Celebrating Our Community

This Women's History Month, we recognize and celebrate the incredible individuals who make Colorado Mountain Club the vibrant, adventurous community it is today:

• The volunteers who dedicate countless hours to our mission
• The instructors who share their expertise with patience and encouragement
• The conservationists protecting the wild places we love
• The mentors who build confidence in new outdoor enthusiasts
• The mountaineers who continue pushing boundaries

We honor those who, like Mary Cronin, have proven that determination knows no limits. At the same time, we acknowledge that while much progress has been made since Cronin's pioneering days, there is always more work to do in creating truly inclusive outdoor spaces.

Looking Forward

As we celebrate the past and present, we also look ahead. Colorado Mountain Club remains committed to creating opportunities for adventurers of all backgrounds to experience the transformative power of the mountains. Through mentorship programs, leadership development, and skills courses, we continue to build on the foundation laid by trailblazers like Mary Cronin. This commitment is reflected at every level of our organization, from Colorado Mountain Club's CEO, Madeline Bachner-Lane (above), to its Youth Programs Teen Internship. 

Whether you're a seasoned alpinist or someone curious about taking your first hike, there's a place for you here. The mountains are calling—and they're calling to everyone.

Join us this month for special events honoring Women's History Month! Check our calendar for women-led hikes, panel discussions with female mountaineers, and skills clinics designed to empower women in the outdoors.

Source: https://www.historycolorado.org/story/2020/04/02/mary-cronin-first-woman-climb-all-colorados-fourteeners